For the Love of Pets: The Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe, Where Best Friends Are Found

From Truckee Magazine, Connections Quarterly, Summer 2026 Issue

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Raise your hand if you’ve got a best friend from the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe (HSTT). There’s a lot of you out there, choosing to adopt rather than shop, saving dogs from whatever unfortunate circumstances landed them into the loving arms of the staff at HSTT. Many conversations in Truckee among strangers who are dog parents eventually circle around to the question, “Where did you get your dog?” Of which, more often than not, the reply is, “The Humane Society.”

What started with a simple love for dogs and a deep desire to help animals in need has grown into a true community pillar. Today, the local Humane Society not only connects loving companions with families seeking them, but also creates meaningful opportunities for the community to support and be part of each animal’s journey from shelter to forever home. 

Creating Second Chances

The story of HSTT begins in 1994, when a small group of passionate volunteers came together with one goal: to give animals in the community a better life. From those humble beginnings, the organization grew steadily, powered by compassion, hard work, and a shared belief that every pet deserves a loving home. 

What was once a small grassroots effort with just one employee and many dedicated volunteers has become a nationally recognized nonprofit, leading the way in adoption, spay/neuter programs, and humane education throughout the Truckee-Tahoe region.

Along the way, moments of generosity helped shape HSTT’s future in extraordinary ways. One of the most impactful came from Ruth Ivy Frishman, a former Truckee attorney and early legacy donor. When she passed away in 2004, she left a remarkable gift of $700,000 to HSTT, something no one saw coming.

“With no formal instructions, but a heartfelt hope expressed to those close to her, Ruth envisioned a brighter future for the animals in our community. Her extraordinary generosity became the catalyst for building our new animal shelter,” shared Stephanie Nistler, HSTT CEO (and one of the HSTT founders). “Though she never sought recognition, her gift has had a profound and lasting impact, transforming HSTT and creating second chances for countless animals. Her legacy continues to inspire us each and every day.”

HSTT’s current shelter, a joint project with the Town of Truckee, was fully realized in 2013. The facility serves as a safe haven for more than 1,000 animals each year, giving countless pets a second chance at life.

Today, HSTT continues to carry forward that original mission, bringing people and animals together, and proving that compassion, community, and generosity can truly change the world, one life at a time.

Adoption

Animal shelters and rescues are consistently full. By adopting, you’re giving a dog a second chance and freeing up space for another animal in need. Many shelters operate at or near capacity, so every adoption has a real impact.

It’s easy to adopt a new running companion, cuddle pal, or best bud. You can start by looking online at adoptable pets, or following them on social media, and then visiting the shelter in person to play with and get to know your possible future family member. 

Their Adoption and Customer Service Specialists will help guide you through your adoption journey, which includes filling out an adoption questionnaire (available online or in person). Once everything is in order, your new pet can go home with you the same day!

Get Involved

There are so many wonderful ways to get involved at the HSTT, from just hanging out with animals in their spaces at the shelter to purchasing used goods from the Thrifty Tails Boutique. 

Volunteer

Anyone age 8 and older can volunteer at the shelter. Volunteers walk dogs on HSTT grounds, provide comfort, playtime, pets, and quiet time. All you have to do is attend a super informative and fun HSTT General Orientation. Email their Community Engagement Director, Erin Ellis, at erin@hstt.org, or visit hstt.org/how-to-help/volunteer to learn more. 

Foster

Enjoy the company of a pet on a short-term basis while providing a safe space for HSTT pets who need a little extra love. Cats, dogs, puppies, and kittens are available for foster care. Those interested must complete a Foster Parent Application and training. Contact Cass Walker, Foster Manager, for details at (530) 582-2499 or cass@hstt.org.

Shop

Find gently used and vintage clothing, pet-related goods, small home décor, artwork, jewelry, and low-cost brand-new items at the Thrifty Tails Boutique located at 12047 Donner Pass Road in the West Town Center. All net proceeds support community spay/neuter programs, education programs, and more.

This is just a snapshot of ways to help. Find even more at hstt.org/how-to-help/volunteer.

Services, Resources, and Programs

In January 2025, the HSTT expanded its role through a municipal contract with the Town of Truckee to oversee Truckee Animal Services’ shelter operations, veterinary services, and community outreach. This partnership addresses our community’s growing needs, elevates animal care, and broadens program availability, including low-cost spay/neuter clinics and pet wellness initiatives. Learn more at hstt.org/services-resources.

Services

• Community Spay & Neuter
• Community Pet Medical Grants
• Community Pet Wellness Clinics
• Community Cat Assistance (TNR)
• Community Pet Pantry
• Dog Licensing
• Lost Pets
• Microchipping
• Rehome a Pet
• Request Shelter to Shelter Transfer
• Surrender Your Pet

Resources

• Animal Control
• Animal Bites
• Animal Disaster Preparedness
• Coexisting with Wildlife
• Emergency Veterinary Services
• Euthanasia & Cremation
• File a Complaint
• Links to Cat Info
• Links to Dog Info
• Local Veterinary Care Services
• Pet-Friendly Housing
• Pet Sitting & Boarding Services
• Report Abuse
• Vet Care Financial Assistance: National Resources

Programs

Learn more about the following programs at hstt.org/programs.

• Dog Training
• Kids Summer Camps
• Pet Assisted Therapy
• Pet Loss Support Program
• Pet Pals
• RUFF
• Fall Speaker Series

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The next time you strike up a conversation with a stranger on a leash, ask them about the humane society; it’s very possible they’ll have a story for you.

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